Championship clubs have rejected a proposal to introduce a VAR-style system for the 2026/27 season, opting against the use of Football Video Support (FVS).
- +Championship clubs reject introduction of VAR-style system for next season
As reported by BBC Sport on Tuesday, the system, which is a simplified version of video assistant referee technology requiring fewer resources and allowing coaches two reviews per match, had been considered for introduction from August.
As reported by BBC Sport on Tuesday, the system, which is a simplified version of video assistant referee technology requiring fewer resources and allowing coaches two reviews per match, had been considered for introduction from August.
Professional Game Match Officials presented the idea at the English Football League’s annual meeting last month. Following the presentation, clubs were consulted on whether to adopt the system.
However, feedback from Championship sides was strongly negative, with a clear majority opposed to introducing any form of video review technology at that level.
Sources indicate the proposal is now effectively shelved for the foreseeable future and is unlikely to be reconsidered in the near term.
Goal-line technology will continue to be used in the Championship, while a separate cost-based assessment will be carried out ahead of a June vote on whether to extend it to League One.
Some managers in the division had previously supported the introduction of VAR-style systems, arguing it could improve refereeing decisions.
Philippe Clement, manager of Norwich City, recently said there are “moments where I miss VAR to get the right decisions,” following a disputed penalty incident in a match against Ipswich.
Former Bristol City manager Gerhard Struber also argued earlier in the year that “with VAR the decisions are better and more fair,” citing improved accuracy in other leagues.
Despite these views, clubs raised concerns about potential disruption to matchday atmosphere and the financial cost of implementing the system.
The decision means the Championship will continue without video review technology, unlike top divisions in countries such as Spain, Italy, and Germany, where VAR is already in use, including in second-tier competitions.
